Hmm I didn't have any problems with my 9" GMC 90 dollar cheapo bandsaw. At first I had a few problems but once I got the guides, bearings, caster, and tension right I can cut thick slabs of mahoganyno probs. Anyhow good work and I can understand about lacking tools. I am only 17(just turned it 2 weeks ago), but slowly I had tools to my collection. I already own a table saw, 18v cordless, 20gallon air compressor with a couple tools and about 200ft of hose (that stuff is hard to keep organized though), my cheapo 9"gmc(really starting to look for a large floor model to do some resawing), dremel, router bits, chiesels etc. I just add on as I need tools. Most of my money doesn't go towards CD's and such. Eventually you will have a shop full. Goodluck with the project and looking real good to.